Rectangle Vs Round Trampoline: Which One Should I Get?

While trampolining is widely known to be a recreational activity there are other benefits of this activity. The American Council on Exercise (ACE) in a study found that jumping on a trampoline was more useful exercise than biking, running and also Frisbee. People rated this to be an easier workout although it has the benefits of a vigorous workout. This is because of the fact that when you do something you love, the enjoyment factor overrules the fact that you are diligently working. It is immensely useful for fun, health and even for sunbathing.

A mini trampoline which is also called as a rebounder or exercise trampoline is often kept indoors and is used as a part of fitness routine and also for leisure activities.

For an average trampoline which is bigger than 10 feet, the minimum age to use is six years. Trampolines designed for kids are smaller than this. If you plan on buying it for teenagers or people older than 14 years, then a 14 feet trampoline will do. Also, remember that it should fit in the place where you plan to fix it.

Does Shape Matters?

The answer is Yes. The shape of the trampoline is not just about its appearance. The bounce, jumping experience, safety, affordability, and suitability according to the type of use varies with the shape of the trampoline. Round, oval, square and rectangle are the four most common forms in which trampolines are available. Out of these, rectangular and round forms are the most prominent.

To help you in deciding which is the better one among round and rectangular trampolines, let’s compare both. However, the answer won’t be as straightforward as you expect it to be.

Round Trampolines

Round trampolines are the most recurrently bought trampolines. Round one is a better choice for the families. It allows more consistent bounce due to its well-placed springs around the frame. Also, it is a better option when it has to be placed in an oddly-shaped and less spacious yards. It is more affordable. You require fewer safety measures while using a round shaped trampoline as it naturally redirects the jumper to the centre, regardless of where the takeoff was made, which adds for added safety.

Also, the trampoline being lighter in weight can be easily shifted from one place to another whenever needed. Also, one needs less additional support. Though it’s less significant bounce decreases the risk of injury, its bounce is not as high as a rectangular trampoline comparatively. It is more prevalent among young users. They also don’t support much weight or force. So, the usage of the round one is limited to household recreational use.

Rectangular Trampolines

Rectangular trampolines are bought for professional use in gyms and fitness spas. They have more space for you to jump. These won’t redirect you to the centre as in round ones. These trampolines can take on more weight in comparison to the round ones.

Having a sturdy frame, they absorb more landing force and also give the jumper more space to perform flips and tricks. Rectangular trampoline provides the best bounce experience. The jumper is the only one who decides where to land on the mat. Though this increases the satisfaction of indulging in the amusement activity, it increases the risk of hurting yourself. Hence, it should be used in a supervised setting. The rectangular trampoline offers a higher jumping elevation with a soft landing experience. More than one person can jump at a time, unlike round trampolines. Professional jumpers usually go with rectangular ones. These are best suited for gymnasts, aerialists, and divers. These are less affordable due to higher cost as more material is required for creating a strong, sturdy frame.

Safety:

Round trampolines are safer when compared to rectangular trampolines as the jumper is always directed to the centre of the mat. But according to research, more than 80% of the accidents happen because of the absence of an enclosure. This enclosure is a mesh screen, fixed around the trampoline which prevents the user getting too close to the edge. Also, checking the trampoline mat for any cuts and if trampoline springs are firmly attached to the mat always helps to be safe.

Weight Limit:

Maximum weight supported by a round trampoline is 400 pounds, whereas for rectangular trampoline it is 450 pounds. Round trampoline supports only one jumper at a time.

Cost Factor:

Round trampolines are cheaper and readily available in the market.

Bounce experience and Altitude of Jump:

Bounce experience and height are higher for rectangular trampoline due to more space for takeoff.

Conclusion:

Rectangular trampoline is more suitable for training purposes while round one is most appropriate for refreshment activities. Round trampoline is affordable and more efficient when safety factor is considered. If you want a bigger bounce, a rectangular trampoline is more suitable, but it should be kept in mind that it comes with an expense of higher risk.